Starting a new year is a great opportunity to set new goals. Maybe this is the year you learn how to make money online, start a side hustle, or even transition to working from home full time. A few years back, I had the same ambition and by October 2018, I achieved my dream of becoming a full-time blogger.
If you’re keen to explore work-from-home opportunities, I’ve compiled a list of free courses and resources to help you get started. These introductory courses provide a taste of various ways to earn money from home. Sign up for the ones that interest you; your new work-from-home job could be just a few clicks away!
**Free Proofreading Workshop**
If you have a keen eye for spelling, punctuation, and grammar, proofreading might be the job for you. It offers flexibility as most work is freelance, allowing you to choose your hours and projects. You can start as a general proofreader or specialize in areas like court transcripts. Top proofreaders can earn up to $40,000 per year. Caitlin Pyle from Proofread Anywhere offers a free 45-minute workshop that covers the basics and tips for starting your own proofreading business.
**Free Workshop on Selling Printables on Etsy**
Selling printables on Etsy is a fantastic way to start an online business with minimal experience and startup costs. Printables are digital files that customers print themselves, such as journals, planners, and coloring pages. The beauty of this business is that you create a product once and can sell it multiple times, generating passive income. Julie at Gold City Ventures offers a free workshop on the basics of selling printables on Etsy, with a comprehensive paid course available if you want to dive deeper.
**Free Coding Courses**
Coding is a valuable and profitable skill in 2024. Whether you want a full-time job in software development or freelance as a side hustle, Free Code Camp offers a wealth of resources. This non-profit provides free courses that can guide you to becoming a professional software engineer, complete with verified certifications. Graduates have landed jobs at companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
**Free Course on Starting a Profitable Blog**
Blogging offers unparalleled freedom, allowing you to work when and where you want. While it requires upfront effort without immediate financial return, consistent work can yield significant results within six months to a year. Carly Campbell offers a free course on starting a profitable blog, covering everything from setting up hosting to writing and promoting content.
**MOOCs: Free University-Level Courses**
MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) offer free courses from top universities like Harvard and MIT. While you won’t earn a degree, you will gain valuable knowledge in various subjects, from computer science to business.
**Affordable TEFL Certification to Teach English Online**
Teaching English online is a great side hustle or work-from-home job, with millions of potential students worldwide. While some companies hire without qualifications, a TEFL or TESOL certificate can significantly boost your earnings. The International Open Academy offers an affordable 120-hour online TEFL course.
**Free Transcription Course**
Transcription involves converting audio recordings into text. If you have a good ear and can type quickly, this could be a profitable side hustle or full-time job. Janet from Transcribe Anywhere offers a free seven-lesson mini-course to help you explore if transcription is right for you.
**Free Resource for Virtual Assistants**
Being a Virtual Assistant (VA) is a versatile online job where you support bloggers, entrepreneurs, or small businesses with tasks like social media management, email replies, and content creation. Gina Horkey offers a free ebook listing over 270 services you can offer as a VA.
**Free 6-Day Freelance Writing Course**
Freelance writing is ideal for those needing a flexible online job. With the growing demand for online content, there’s plenty of work available. Elna Cain offers a free six-day course called “Get Paid To Write,” covering everything from finding a niche to pitching clients.
I wish you lots of luck in finding your new venture!